When someone embarks on a deeper journey into God’s Word, it is often accompanied by excitement and zeal. Many mature Christians, and even new believers, decide to immerse themselves in Scripture, study its characters, and explore theological teachings. They may read the Bible from cover to cover, watch sermons from pastors on TV, listen to podcasts, read books about biblical themes, and even enjoy Christian movies. While this desire to know God more deeply is admirable, it can sometimes lead to confusion.

The sheer amount of information, coupled with differing interpretations, denominational teachings, and even heretical views, can leave a believer feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what to believe. As Paul warned in 2 Timothy 4:3-4 (NIV), “For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.”

In this devotional, we’ll explore how to discern truth from error, how to approach God’s Word in a way that avoids confusion, and what to look for in the resources we consume to grow spiritually.

Confusion often arises when we encounter conflicting interpretations of Scripture or teachings that seem to stray from God’s Word. This can happen when:

1. We encounter denominational differences – Different Christian traditions emphasize various aspects of theology, which can create confusion if we don’t understand the reasons behind their teachings.
2. We hear from untrained or unqualified teachers – Not everyone who teaches or preaches is equipped with sound theology. James 3:1 reminds us, “Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.”
3. We encounter cult teachings or distorted theology – Some teachings may sound biblical but twist Scripture to promote false doctrines. This is why discernment is crucial.
4. We consume media with creative liberties – Christian movies or fictionalized Bible stories often take liberties to dramatize events, which can mislead believers who are unfamiliar with Scripture.

While all of these resources may seem like tools to enhance our faith, too much unfiltered input from questionable sources can lead to spiritual confusion.

How to Discern and Learn Without Confusion

1. Anchor Yourself in the Bible First

The Bible is our ultimate authority and the inspired Word of God. Before diving into external resources, make Scripture your primary focus. Psalm 119:105 declares, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”

When you prioritize reading and meditating on Scripture, you build a firm foundation of truth. This helps you recognize teachings or interpretations that deviate from God’s Word.

2. Pray for Wisdom and Discernment

God has promised to guide us when we seek Him. James 1:5 says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”

Before reading the Bible, listening to a sermon, or consuming any Christian media, pray for God to give you discernment. The Holy Spirit is our teacher (John 14:26), and He will help us understand truth and reject error.

3. Study Scripture in Context

Many false teachings stem from taking verses out of context. When studying the Bible, consider the historical, cultural, and literary context of the passage. Ask questions like:

• Who is the author, and who is the audience?
• What is the purpose of this passage?
• How does this fit into the broader message of the Bible?

A good study Bible or commentary from a trusted theologian can help provide clarity.

4. Test Every Teaching Against Scripture

Acts 17:11 commends the Bereans for examining teachings in light of God’s Word: “Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.”

When you hear a sermon, read a book, or watch a movie, ask yourself:

• Does this align with Scripture?
• Does it point to Jesus and glorify God?
• Does it promote godly living and sound doctrine?

If the answer is no, approach it with caution.

5. Avoid Information Overload

It is possible to consume too much at once, especially from a variety of sources. Ecclesiastes 12:12 warns, “Of making many books there is no end, and much study wearies the body.”

Focus on depth rather than breadth. Instead of jumping between multiple resources, choose one or two trusted materials and study them thoroughly. For example, you might focus on studying a specific book of the Bible with a reliable commentary rather than juggling podcasts, sermons, and movies all at once.

6. Be Wary of Red Flags in Media and Teachings

When exploring resources, look for these warning signs:

• Scriptural distortion – Does the teacher or resource take Scripture out of context or emphasize verses selectively to support an agenda?
• A focus on man rather than God – Does the message glorify the speaker or promote personal prosperity over God’s will?
• Legalism or looseness – Does the teaching add to or subtract from God’s Word? Legalism emphasizes rules over grace, while looseness permits sin under the guise of grace.
• Lack of accountability – Is the teacher or ministry accountable to a church body or governing organization?

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What to Look For in Christian Resources

1. A Christ-Centered Message

A true teaching will always point to Jesus as Lord and Savior. John 14:6 reminds us, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

2. Faithful Handling of Scripture

Look for teachers and resources that treat the Bible with reverence and interpret it accurately. Trustworthy teachers will acknowledge when there is room for differing opinions but will not compromise on essential doctrines.

3. Godly Character in Teachers

Jesus warned in Matthew 7:15-20 to watch for fruit in the lives of teachers. If a teacher’s life lacks humility, integrity, or love, their teaching should be approached with caution.

4. A Call to Holiness and Obedience

True biblical teaching encourages believers to grow in holiness. 1 Peter 1:15-16 says, “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’”

While the desire to dig deeper into God’s Word is a beautiful pursuit, we must approach it with wisdom and discernment. Remember, God is not the author of confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33). He desires for us to know Him and grow in the truth of His Word.

If you find yourself overwhelmed, return to the basics:

• Focus on reading and meditating on Scripture daily.
• Surround yourself with godly mentors and a church community.
• Limit the number of external resources and prioritize those that are biblically sound.

Finally, take comfort in knowing that God will guide you as you seek Him with all your heart. Proverbs 3:5-6 promises, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

May your pursuit of God’s Word bring clarity, peace, and a deeper relationship with Him.